The Carlton Football Club has suspended Wade Derksen for all AFL pre-season games and the first three games of the 2027 home-and-away season, after the defender was charged with drink driving while in Jabiru in the Northern Territory during the off-season.
Derksen failed a roadside breath test in late September after returning a high-range reading, with the matter scheduled to be heard in a Northern Territory court next month.
“While we acknowledge the upcoming legal process will carry its own penalty, Wade’s conduct falls well below the standards we expect,” Carlton General Manager of Football Chris Davies said.
“Wade is fully aware how disappointed we are in what occurred. We will continue to support him throughout this period as he takes full responsibility for his actions.”
In addition to serving his club-imposed suspension, Derksen has agreed to complete the relevant counselling.
The 25-year-old has expressed his deep remorse and acknowledged the risk that his poor judgement had posed to the community.
“I want to express how sorry I am for what I did,” Derksen said.
“The choice I made to get behind the wheel that day was unacceptable and is a moment I deeply regret. I have let a lot of people down and for that I apologise.”
